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Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Archons Host
Ecumenical Patriarchate Symposium

Educational Event Highlights challenges of the
Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople

Elmhurst: The Archons of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago, members of the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, hosted the second of a series of regional symposia on the challenges facing the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the first See of the Eastern Orthodox Churches.

This event, featuring Archon Regional Commanders Gus Pablecas and John Manos, was held at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Elmhurst, IL, following Sunday services at the parish. With the support in attendance of nine additional Archons of the Metropolis of Chicago and Fathers Andrew Georganas and Father Peter Malamis, the presentation was made before a gathering of over 250 parishioners.

The event centered around religious freedom in Turkey and the “5 Core Issues” facing the Ecumenical Patriarchate. These are: a.) No Legal Identity within Turkey; b.) Confiscation of Orthodox Property; c.) Turkish Government Interference with Apostolic Succession; d.) Forcible Closure of the Theological School of Halki; and, e.) Refusal to Recognize the Ecumenical Status of Patriarch.

More information on these issues and why immediate attention is required can be found on the Archon Website, www.Archons.org.

The Archons have gained support for religious freedom for the Ecumenical Patriarchate through legislative resolutions in several states covered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago: Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri. With progress towards passage in the remaining states of Minnesota and Indiana under way, the Archons have decided to turn their attention to these educational symposia as part of an new effort to increase awareness of the plight of the Ecumenical Patriarch.

An Archon is an honoree by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for his outstanding service to the Church, and a well-known, distinguished, and well-respected leader of the Orthodox Christian community. Those selected to serve as Archons have demonstrated a deep commitment toward the stewardship of time, talent and treasure for the betterment of the Church at the local, Metropolis, national Archdiocesan or international level. Archons are charged and entrusted with the protection of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Media coverage of this event is welcomed and encouraged.

Attached Archon Group Photo: L-R: Bob Bozonelos, George Gritsoins, Tom Angelos, Frank Lagouros, Regional Commander John Manos, Father Andrew Georganas, Regional Commander Gus Pablecas, Ted Sepsis, Lou Malevitis, George Danigelis